Expiration & Storage Tips
When does cocktail sauce expire?
Unopened store-bought cocktail sauce typically has a shelf life of 1-2 years from the manufacturing date, allowing you to enjoy its tangy flavor for quite a while. However, once opened, it is best to consume it within a month. This can extend to 6 months if it is stored properly in the refrigerator. Homemade cocktail sauce often doesn't last as long, usually 5-7 days in the fridge. Freezing isn't typically recommended for cocktail sauce, as it may disrupt the texture and flavor.
How do you tell if cocktail sauce is bad?
If it has turned from a glossy to a dull, dark color, or if there's a foul or off-odor, it's likely gone bad. Mold growth, separation of ingredients or a change in texture are also sure signs it's time to throw out your cocktail sauce. Always trust your senses in detecting spoilage, if it looks, smells or tastes off, better to toss it out!
Tips for storing cocktail sauce to extend shelf life
• Always store cocktail sauce in a cool and dark place when unopened.
• Once opened, it should be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and maintain its flavor.
• Avoid using dirty utensils when serving the sauce to prevent the introduction of bacteria that may spoil the sauce.
• If you’re not likely to use it up within a month, consider portioning the sauce into smaller containers before refrigerating, this way you only thaw what you need.